Lord Mayor Clover Moore has officially opened the Sydney Mardi Gras Museum.

The Museum aims to showcase the LGBT community and the annual Mardi Gras celebrations, shining a spotlight on everything from the outrageous fun and utter fabulousness to the costumes and controversy, the tears and triumphs of a glorious 35-year history.

Speaking to AAP, Moore said that the museum has an “essential message about acceptance and diversity” and described the exhibition as “an ongoing education program that I think we need.

While the LGBT community hopes the exhibition will become permanent, Moore sad the fate of the museum space lies with public support and feedback.

The exhibition begins with a short background of the gay rights movement and protests of the 1970s. At the same time, the main section explores the evolution of the Parade (from its origins as a show of international gay solidarity) and the Party as platforms for advocacy into the huge spectacles of now. Magic moments, profound memories, poignant reminders, friends and heroes cover the walls and fill the space.

Look out for our festival series LGBTQI Sydney, Nights at the Museum, with special guest speakers throughout the Mardi Gras Festival.

The Sydney Mardi Gras Museum opens to the general public on January 30.